Breaking the Stigma: Mental Health in Construction with Matt Jenkins

The construction industry is known for its long hours, tough conditions, and high-pressure environment. But what isn’t talked about enough is how these factors impact mental health. In the latest episode of Build & Thrive, we sat down with Matt Jenkins, a carpenter, site supervisor, and trustee for Lads Minds, a mental health charity focused on breaking the stigma in construction.

In this episode of the Build & Thrive podcast Matt shared his personal journey, the hidden mental health struggles of construction workers, and how small daily changes can make a huge difference. If this blog resonates with you, we highly recommend checking out the full podcast or video episode for even deeper insights.

Listen: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2431164 (or search your podcast app)

Watch: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEoibJLDuFnnT3qSQw37LKPG6xlyvCj7B 

The Mental Health Crisis in Construction

Construction has a serious mental health problem, but for too long, it’s been swept under the rug. Here’s what we’re facing:

🔴 Nearly 4 times higher suicide rates than other industries
🔴 Long, demanding hours leading to exhaustion and burnout
🔴 Job insecurity, financial stress, and pressure to work weekends
🔴 A “tough guy” culture that makes it hard to speak up
🔴 Working away from home, leading to isolation and loneliness

💬 “A ten-hour shift means a 13-hour day when you count the commute. A lot of bosses expect weekend work, and people feel bad saying no. It adds up.” – Matt Jenkins

With all these challenges, why are we still not doing enough to support mental health in construction?

Lads Minds: Changing the Conversation

Matt is a trustee for Lads Minds, a charity set up by construction workers, for construction workers. Their mission? To normalise conversations around mental health and encourage people to seek help.

🔹 They visit sites and share real, raw personal stories
🔹 They break down stigma by proving that mental health struggles can affect anyone
🔹 They offer support and signposting to those who need help

💬 “We go into construction sites and share our stories—raw, real, and sometimes hard to hear. But when someone opens up, even if it’s just one person, it makes a difference.” – Matt Jenkins

Many workers are still afraid to speak up, but Matt and the Lads Minds team are proving that when one person opens up, it gives others permission to do the same.

Why Construction Work Can Take a Toll on Mental Health

While personal life challenges play a role, Matt highlighted how the nature of construction itself contributes to stress and burnout:

🚧 Long & Demanding Hours

Workers are often pressured into working weekends, meaning less time for rest and recovery.

🏠 Working Away from Home

Being far from family and support networks can worsen feelings of isolation.

💼 Job Insecurity

Many workers are on short-term contracts, leaving them worried about their next job.

🔥 A Culture of “Toughing It Out”

There’s still stigma around asking for help, especially in male-dominated environments like construction.

Matt shared that some workplaces are getting better, but there’s still a long way to go. Companies need to stop paying lip service to mental health and start creating real supportive environments.

Matt’s Personal Health Transformation: Small Changes, Big Impact

Beyond his work in mental health, Matt has also undergone a huge personal transformation, proving that small daily changes add up to big results.

💬 “I started small—cutting out sugar, moving more, and keeping track of progress. Now, I feel better than I have in years.” – Matt Jenkins

Here’s how he turned his physical and mental health around:

✅ Cut out processed foods & sugar
✅ Started with 100 push-ups a day (now 200 reps of different exercises)
✅ Tracked progress daily (what he ate, how much he moved, weight changes)
✅ Prioritised quality time with family
✅ Spent more time in nature

The results? More energy, better mental clarity, and a complete mindset shift.

His story is proof that even in the demanding world of construction, small, consistent efforts can improve overall wellbeing.

How Can Construction Companies Do Better?

Companies need to move beyond just ticking a box for mental health initiatives. Here are some actionable ways they can make a difference:

🏗️ Break the stigma – Encourage open conversations about mental health
🏗️ Prioritise work-life balance – Limit excessive overtime and weekend work
🏗️ Improve site culture – Tackle bullying and toxic work environments
🏗️ Support mental health initiatives – Bring in charities like Lads Minds to talk to workers
🏗️ Offer real resources – Make sure workers know where to find professional help

💬 “When you’ve got a good environment, a good backing behind you, you know you’re well supported. It makes a huge difference. Especially with productivity.” – Matt Jenkins

Good mental health isn’t just about wellbeing—it’s about safety and performance, too. Workers who feel supported stay in the industry longer, make fewer mistakes, and create a safer environment for everyone.

Final Thoughts: How You Can Make a Change

We all have a part to play in making construction a healthier and happier place to work. Whether you’re a worker, a manager, or a company leader, here’s what you can do:

🛠️ Start conversations – Encourage open discussions about mental health
🛠️ Support charities like Lads Minds – Bring them to your site for a session
🛠️ Make small daily changes – Prioritise your own wellbeing with small steps
🛠️ Challenge the culture – Stand up to toxic workplace behaviour

💬 “If there’s anything you can do, it’s just to break the cycle, start something new, set yourself small challenges, and make progress every day.” – Matt Jenkins

This conversation is too important to ignore. If you’ve found this blog useful, we encourage you to listen to the full episode for even more insights from Matt.

Together, we can build a stronger, safer, and healthier construction industry.

🎧 https://www.buzzsprout.com/2431164 (or search your podcast app)

📺 https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEoibJLDuFnnT3qSQw37LKPG6xlyvCj7B 

And finally, a huge thank you to GKR Scaffolding for sponsoring the first series of the Build & Thrive podcast, we highly appreciate your support!

At Construction Health & Wellbeing, we’re here to help businesses like yours prioritise health and wellbeing. Contact us today to learn how we can support your journey.

Learn more about the people and businesses mentioned in this blog:

Jennie Armstrong: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniearmstrong/ 

Construction Health & Wellbeing: https://constructionhealth.co.uk/ 

Matt Jenkins Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-jenkins-97296411b/?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app 

Lads Minds: https://ladsminds.com/ 

GKR Scaffolding (sponsor): https://gkrscaffolding.co.uk/